Music Exams

What is Yamaha Grade?

The Yamaha Grade Examination System was started in 1967 for the purpose of enabling everyone who is learning music to improve their musical skills in a well-planned manner while verifying their overall ability.

Yamaha Grade Examinations help teachers and music learners to confirm their musical abilities and encourage them to acquire all-around musical abilities so that they can enjoy creating and performing music.

Giving everyone learning music standards and motivation for achieving goals

The Grade Examination System broadly targets two groups: students and teachers. Student Grades are used as an objective assessment of the progress being made in learning music, while the teacher Grades certify the performance ability as well as overall musical knowledge needed to provide music instruction.

The Yamaha Grade Examination System offers Performance Grades for Piano, Electone, Classical Guitar, Violin, Drums, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Bass, Flute, Saxophone, Pop Piano/Keyboard, Vocal and Fundamentals Grade.

They are classified into 3 categories: Student Grades (13 - 6), Teacher Grades (5 - 3) and Performer Grades (2, 1)

We also provide Fundamental Skills Survey for Junior Music Course students. The system is designed to examine performance abilities and general music knowledge, both of which are necessary for enjoying music, teaching music fundamentals and playing professionally.

London College of Music Examinations

London College of Music Examinations (LCME) is a university-owned, inclusive board for performance exams. Established in 1887, we offer globally recognised qualifications and awards in music, drama, communications, and creative media.

LCME graded exams

Graded exams are offered in a wide range of subjects through a progressive system of 8 levels. Graded exams generate motivation and reward achievement, and the levels are recognised internationally.

Assessment bands are as follows:

• 85-100% - Distinction
• 75-84% - Merit
• 65-74% - Pass
• 0-64% - Unsuccessful

In the UK, LCME's graded exams are regulated by Ofqual, Qualifications Wales and CCEA at Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework, and UCAS points are awarded for Grades 6–8.

CME's graded exams are also included on the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA)

Founded in 1972 by Ann Oliver MBE, the British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA) has grown from a Midlands-based organisation to an international presence. Its success lies in dedicated, personalised service, quick support for teachers and candidates, and a wide range of inclusive dance programmes for all ages and abilities.

Dance Examinations and Awards

Dance transforms images, ideas and feelings into movement sequences that are emotionally and socially significant. It provides a context for understanding the world and contributes to cultural and personal development in both applied and expressive contexts. Dance offers opportunities for the exploration, discovery and development of natural instincts for movement and offers many benefits for individuals by encouraging aesthetic and emotional development as well as enhancing motor skills.

BTDA is committed to ensuring access to all who have the capacity to safely participate in dance and offers a range of examinations and awards to recognise an individual's achievements.

Join the British Theatre Dance Association

Behind every great dancer is a great teacher, BTDA's Professional Teachers and Examiners are crucial to every student, they make it their responsibility to help each individual reach their full potential. Contact us to find out more or for teachers in your area.